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Football London
Football London
Sport
Lee Wilmot

Mateo Kovacic's first words as he completes £40m Chelsea move despite transfer ban

As expected Chelsea have completed the signing of Mateo Kovacic from Real Madrid.

The transfer fee has not been disclosed, but it is thought to be in the region of £40million, with Kovacic signing a five-year contract at Stamford Bridge.

This comes despite the Blues having a transfer embargo on them.

Kovacic was part of the Chelsea squad that finished third in the Premier League under Maurizio Sarri last season and won the Europa League, having been on loan from Madrid for the year.

And it is because he was on loan in west London that the Blues can sign him despite their transfer ban.

Both clubs agreed on an option to buy clause in the contract, something which the Blues are willing to take up as they go into the summer with the transfer ban.

(Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Chelsea are allowed to sign Kovacic as it is seen as an extension of his contract, meaning it is not a fresh registration, which would not be allowed.

Speaking to the club's official website upon signing permanently, Kovacic said: "I really enjoyed my season on loan with Chelsea, I feel comfortable at the club and like London and the Premier League very much. I am very happy to be able to join permanently.

"We had a successful year, winning the Europa League and I hope I can make a big contribution in the coming seasons."

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